When you’re dealing with a lawn that feels like it stretches on for miles, a self-propelled petrol lawn mower can be a game-changer. No more huffing and puffing as you push a heavy mower up and down your garden; the machine does most of the work for you. If you’re in the UK and searching for the best self-propelled petrol lawn mower, I’ve got you covered. I’ve tested, researched, and compared to bring you the top picks that offer a perfect blend of power, efficiency, and ease of use.
Best Self-Propelled Petrol Lawn Mowers in the UK
1. Honda HRX476HY Self-Propelled Petrol Lawn Mower
Why It Stands Out:
- Engine Power: 160cc Honda GCVx160 engine
- Cutting Width: 47 cm, suitable for medium to large gardens
- Cutting Heights: 7 settings from 19mm to 82mm
- Grass Collector: 69-litre capacity
- Features: Hydrostatic drive, Versamow™ selective mulching, Roto-stop blade system
The Honda HRX476HY is a powerhouse when it comes to self-propelled petrol lawn mowers. Its 160cc Honda engine provides reliable performance and smooth operation, while the hydrostatic drive allows for precise control of the mowing speed. What I particularly love about this model is its Versamow™ system, which lets you choose whether to mulch or collect the clippings. The Roto-stop feature is also a winner, as it stops the blade without shutting off the engine—perfect for when you need to empty the bag or move across paths.
2. Mountfield SP53 Elite Self-Propelled Petrol Lawn Mower
Why It Stands Out:
- Engine Power: 167cc Honda GCVx170 Autochoke engine
- Cutting Width: 51 cm, great for large gardens
- Cutting Heights: 6 adjustable heights from 26mm to 87mm
- Grass Collector: 60-litre capacity
- Features: Rear-wheel drive, mulching plug, large wheels for better traction
Mountfield’s SP53 Elite model is a top pick for those with larger gardens. Its 167cc Honda engine provides ample power to tackle thicker grass and uneven terrain, while the rear-wheel drive makes it easier to navigate hills and slopes. The 51 cm cutting width covers a lot of ground quickly, and the adjustable cutting heights allow you to customize the look of your lawn. Plus, it comes with a mulching plug, so you can feed nutrients back into your lawn if you prefer not to collect clippings.
3. Hayter Harrier 41 Autodrive ES Rear Roller Self-Propelled Lawn Mower
Why It Stands Out:
- Engine Power: 159cc Briggs & Stratton 575iS InStart engine
- Cutting Width: 41 cm, ideal for medium gardens
- Cutting Heights: 7 positions from 13mm to 60mm
- Grass Collector: 60-litre capacity
- Features: Rear roller for stripes, electric start, aluminum deck
If you’re after those classic lawn stripes that make your garden look like a freshly groomed football pitch, the Hayter Harrier 41 is a standout choice. It comes with a 159cc Briggs & Stratton engine and an electric start for easy operation. The rear roller is perfect for creating those iconic stripes, and the robust aluminum deck ensures durability. It’s a great all-rounder for those who want a balance of power, aesthetics, and ease of use.
4. Cobra MX534SPH Self-Propelled Petrol Lawn Mower
Why It Stands Out:
- Engine Power: 167cc Honda GCVx170 engine
- Cutting Width: 53 cm, suitable for large gardens
- Cutting Heights: 6 settings from 25mm to 75mm
- Grass Collector: 65-litre capacity
- Features: Four-speed gearbox, mulching, side discharge, large rear wheels
The Cobra MX534SPH is a versatile option designed to handle large gardens with varied terrain. Its powerful 167cc Honda engine provides strong performance, and the four-speed gearbox lets you adjust the pace to suit your comfort and the lawn’s condition. I like that it offers multiple options for grass disposal—whether you prefer bagging, mulching, or side discharge, this mower’s got you covered. The large rear wheels also provide better grip and stability on uneven ground.
5. Hyundai HYM510SPE Self-Propelled Petrol Lawn Mower
Why It Stands Out:
- Engine Power: 196cc Hyundai IC175VE engine
- Cutting Width: 51 cm, ideal for medium to large lawns
- Cutting Heights: 6 adjustable heights from 25mm to 75mm
- Grass Collector: 70-litre capacity
- Features: Electric start, rear-wheel drive, foldable handles for storage
Hyundai has been making waves in the lawn mower market, and the HYM510SPE is no exception. With a powerful 196cc engine, this mower is built to handle tough lawns and long grass. The electric start is a nice feature that saves time and effort, especially for those who dislike pull-starting mowers. The large 70-litre grass collector means fewer stops to empty, and its foldable handles make it easier to store when not in use.
Key Considerations for Choosing a Self-Propelled Petrol Lawn Mower
When choosing the right self-propelled petrol lawn mower for your garden, consider these key factors:
- Engine Power: Look for a mower with at least a 150cc engine for medium to large gardens to handle dense or tall grass efficiently.
- Cutting Width: For larger gardens, a cutting width of 50 cm or more is ideal. For smaller gardens, a 40-45 cm width will provide more maneuverability.
- Drive System: Rear-wheel drive offers better traction on slopes, while front-wheel drive mowers are easier to maneuver.
- Grass Disposal Options: Some mowers offer 3-in-1 options (bagging, mulching, side discharge), giving you more flexibility in how you manage clippings.
- Start Mechanism: Electric starts are convenient and save time, while pull starts are more traditional and can be more reliable in cold conditions.
- Grass Collection: A larger grass collector (60 litres or more) is essential for reducing the number of stops to empty the bag on large lawns.
Conclusion
Choosing the best self-propelled petrol lawn mower in the UK depends on your specific needs, garden size, and terrain. For the ultimate blend of power, reliability, and features, the Honda HRX476HY is a top choice. For larger gardens or those on a tighter budget, the Hyundai HYM510SPE provides excellent value with its robust engine and versatile features. And if you’re after that perfect striped finish, the Hayter Harrier 41 is a fantastic pick.
Whichever mower you choose, it’s all about making lawn care easier, faster, and maybe even a bit more enjoyable!